Type of bind: Video On Demand
Release Date: August 19, 2008
Running Time: 117 minutes
Sale Popularity Level: 5577
Studio: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Theatrical Release Date: December 16, 1982
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Rated by buyers 
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I adore Dustin Hoffman and count him as one of the greatest actors to ever grace the big screen, and even though his recent choices are less than impressive (what has happened to these acting giants; ala Robert De Niro and Al Pacino?) I am still enamored by just about everything he's done pre-2000. His comedic performance in `Tootsie' is certainly one of his grandest.
Hoffman plays Michael Dorsey, a hard to get along with actor who cannot seem to find work because of his reputation. His talent precedes him but his arrogance and stubbornness have caused him to become unwanted. With this weighting heavily over his head, and the desire to help his friend launch his own stage-play, Dorsey decides to go undercover (way undercover) to get a job, and so that is how Dorothy Michaels comes about, a hotheaded older woman who nabs the new role on a soap. Her sucess is instantaneous, fans flocking to her and costars befriending her, not the least of which is Julie Nichols who also manages to catch Dorsey's eye.
The main plot of Dorsey falling for Nichols but being unable to confess his feelings for her without compromising his paycheck really play second fiddle to the real meat of Dorsey's transformation while disguised as Michaels. Dorsey is able to separate himself from his actions and view the world through a new set of eyes, waking himself to his own inadequacies, but also giving strength to his female fans, on and off the screen, to fight against the stereotypes that bind them so tightly.
The performances are all outstanding, especially from Hoffman who is not only hilarious but also very connected to the emotional journey both of his characters are going through. Jessica Lange won an Oscar for her performance, and while I don't consider it `amazing' it was tender and genuine and deserving of admiration (but I'm not so sure of an Oscar). Actually, second to Hoffman is Charles Durning who really should have nabbed a nomination for his wonderfully complete portrayal of Nichols lonely father Les, who happens to take a liking to Dorothy. His performance is so sincere and moving that the Academy should be ashamed for passing him over.
The rest of the supporting cast is also wonderful, from the late Sydney Pollack to Teri Garr, Bill Murray and a pre-stardom Geena Davis.
The script is brilliantly crafted to be both comedic and heartwarming, and when the Dorsey/Michaels revelation is finally revealed you will find yourself on the floor in the most painfully side splitting uproarious laughter that you will feel compelled to watch the whole film all over again just so you can see that scene in all its glory (you have to watch the whole film for a proper setup). Hoffman and company really deliver a film that is more than just a comedy, it is a landmark and one of the most influential and recognizable films to the 80's.
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Dustin Hoffman is hilarious as an actor doing what he needs to do to get the job and the girl.For a few moments you forget he's a he.Sidney Pollack doesnt miss a heart beat in this family type comedy.Definately a movie to watch over and over.Glad its now in my library of best movies.
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The special edition of Tootsie is great! The making of - comprised of behind the scenes footage from the film shoot, make up tests, interviews with cast and crew, plus the history of how the film came to fruition - was great. I'm so glad there was an opportunity to conduct interviews with Sydney Pollack before passed away; what an amazing director and all around great guy. The interviews with Dustin Hoffman are also hilarious and insightful.
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Funny lines, terrific acting, great direction. It shows sexism in the '80's--as a woman, I'm so glad I missed all that.
To a fascinating and Oscar award-winning film maker Sydney Pollack (1934-2008). Great work! It still makes us laugh, cry and feel after all these years.
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I won't repeat what other reviewers wrote, but just add that the scenes between Hoffman and Pollack (as his agent) set a new comic standard for screen arguments...I didn't realize how many good lines I missed the very first time....
HOFFMAN: "I DID sleep with her, she STILL thinks I'm gay."
POLLACK: "Oh...not so good, Michael."
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